Host country to the 1988 Olympic Games, the Republic of Korea ('South Korea') became prominent in world affairs but surprisingly little was known about the general public. First published in 1988, Korea provides a complete picture of the country and its people. The authors reveal the continuing importance of the country's economic development, which enabled it to develop almost overnight from a starvation economy into an international force and offer an insight into the distinct and under-appreciated cultural tradition of the Republic of Korea. They set the Korean peninsula in its Asian context and give a fascinating description of the Korean people--their society, language, customs, and religions (both old and new), the role of the family and of women, and the aspirations of ordinary Koreans as their country emerged into the international limelight. This book is a must read for students of Asian studies and history, and general readers interested in the topic.